Controversy Surrounds Politico's Removal of Antisemitic Cartoon Featuring Trump and Netanyahu

On March 29, 2026, Politico removed a cartoon by Sean Delonas that depicted President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a controversial light. The cartoon, titled "Ship of Neocons," illustrated the leaders alongside Republican officials, all adorned in blood-stained Jewish prayer shawls and yarmulkes, while sitting on a ship labeled "Amalek." This imagery, which critics argue perpetuates antisemitic tropes, was taken down following public outcry and accusations of antisemitism, particularly after coverage by the Washington Free Beacon.

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In a statement, Politico acknowledged the removal, stating that the cartoon "did not meet our standards." The outlet emphasized that while provocative imagery is permissible, content that relies on ethnic stereotypes or historically hateful tropes is not acceptable. Delonas defended his work, arguing that exaggeration is a common practice in cartooning and that his references were intended to critique the war with Iran rather than promote antisemitism. He noted that the exaggerated features of all characters were part of the cartooning tradition.

New York Post

Critics have pointed out that the cartoon's portrayal of Netanyahu with an exaggerated nose and the use of Jewish symbols suggest a narrative of Jewish manipulation in global affairs, a theme often associated with antisemitic rhetoric. The backlash included accusations that such depictions contribute to a broader culture of antisemitism, particularly in the context of ongoing conflicts involving Israel and Iran.

Aaaaand Another Cartoon Accused of AntiSemitism – Update

The controversy surrounding the cartoon is set against a backdrop of rising antisemitism in various sectors, including academia. The Trump administration has filed lawsuits against Harvard University and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), alleging that these institutions have failed to protect Jewish students from antisemitic harassment. The lawsuits claim violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, asserting that Jewish students have faced a hostile environment on campus.

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In response, Harvard faculty members condemned the lawsuits, arguing they exploit concerns about antisemitism for political gain. They called for the Department of Justice to withdraw the case, asserting that it could harm the Jewish community at the university. Meanwhile, Harvard has taken steps to address antisemitism, including settling lawsuits and implementing new policies to combat discrimination.

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While the Trump administration claims that Jewish students have faced physical assaults and harassment, some experts argue that the accusations may be politically motivated rather than based on a genuine concern for student welfare. Critics suggest that the administration's focus on antisemitism may serve as a pretext for broader ideological control over universities.

• “At the same time, all content on Politico — including from outside contributors — is subject to our editorial standards. We removed a cartoon by independent cartoonist Sean Delonas from this week’s gallery after weighing comments from readers that it did not meet our standards.” — Politico

The Wrap

• “All the figures have exaggerated features — it’s a cartoon. I drew more exaggerated noses on Senator Ted Cruz and the GOP elephants in the cartoon than on Bibi. Is that anti-Semitic as well?” — Sean Delonas

New York Post

The removal of the cartoon and the surrounding discourse highlight the complexities of political expression, cultural sensitivities, and the ongoing challenges of addressing antisemitism in contemporary society.